This isn’t my first time in Crete. I’ve sweet memories from my last visit, especially of the food and glorious coastline. Crete is the largest of the Greek islands. It’s rich in mythology, the land of the Minotaur and filled with wondrous tales of gods and giants. The other striking memory I carry is the warmth and hospitality of the Cretan people and that is as abundant as ever as I check into Giannoulis Cavo Spada Resort. This luxurious five star hotel on Crete’s western shore is close to Chania, with direct flights from Dublin.
I get started quickly, taking part in one the resorts many free activities. Today it’s olive oil tasting and the first step is to cup the glass in my left palm and cover it with the other while gently rolling it in a circular motion. Next we take a sip and rinse the oil around the mouth. After swallowing we wait until a burning sensation slides down the throat and we have to describe the aftertaste. The aroma the oils emit depends on the variety of olive used. I clearly get the scent of tomatoes and bananas, which is not unusual. Equally interesting and also free is the wine tasting of Cretan wines next day.
On arrival the manager brought me on a tour of the facilities and there are plenty to fill my time if I decide to stay on site. The gym is exceptional so it comes as no surprise to learn that Olympic teams frequent the hotel to continue their training during the winter months. With a running track, assault course and paddle tennis any sports enthusiast can be kept busy. Fitness dance classes and aqua aerobics also run throughout the day. Like my olive tasting class many are free here so you can fill your time with the all-inclusive package and not spend any money while on your holiday. This will definitely appeal to those with older family members who care about a healthy lifestyle and enjoy activity during their vacation.
At the centre of the resort is a Spa with treatment rooms and a warm pool. My toes needed attention, so I opted for a pedicure. A wide range of massages and facials are all also available and about half the price you would expect to pay in Ireland.
Next day I’m excited to return to visit charming Chania old town for a spot of shopping. The Venetians took this island from the Byzantines in 1204 and ruled for more than four centuries, leaving a fascinating range of architectural features that stand at Cretan ports. I start with a trip to the Maritime Museum of Crete and learn about the rich sea-faring history from as far back as the Minoans. Built alongside an old fort, the displays are impressive showing how Crete survived through World War II. The Venetian period left an archaeological legacy with spectacular views from the town itself. Labyrinthine cobbled streets with delightful handmade jewellery and craft shops take up the rest of my visit before stopping off for a cocktail to soak up the harbour view. 
During our stay, we took a boat trip from the port of Kolymbari with Denari Cruises. This Boat company has over 20 catamarans around the island. Included in the half day trip was breakfast of granola and strawberries and with no shortage of beverages this was relaxing and fun way to enjoy the sea breeze and learn a bit of history.
Nikita made us all comfortable and started with a fable about the mythology behind the creation of the nearby islands. Kri Kri was given its name from the type of goat that bred on the island. The waters are crystal clear and that hauntingly beautiful turquoise beckons at me to jump in. With paddle boards, snorkels and Rita the inflatable pink flamingo there’s plenty of ways to enjoy the water. We were served a delicious Greek lunch too. If Carlsberg did boat trips then this might just be the closest that you’ll find.
Back at the hotel it’s time for a special dinner at Azurro restaurant. This is a la carte dining at its finest with the island’s traditional dishes laced into the menu. The shrimps in baked feta followed by tuna with chickpeas and lemon sauce go down as firm favourites at our table. I always feel inspired to bring these recipes home after a trip to Greece but somehow I can never recreate them to be as delicious.
My junior suite has been totally refurbished since it was completed almost twenty years. It looks at the pool and is only a short stroll to the Sea Line restaurant where snacks ice cream and beverages are free throughout the day. It’s only steps away from the private and unspoiled pebble beach leading down to the azure blue sea.
At the sister hotel Santa Marina Plaza the beach however is covered in fine soft sand and the water is shallow. I spent two nights at this adult only resort that has a huge amount of return customers. This says a lot about the quality of hospitality you can expect. Some clients have been coming for 20 years and got to know the staff as friends. Santa Marina Plaza is in the lovely small town of Agia Marina with plenty of shops and things to do. Next door the larger Santa Marina Beach is also part of the group and has extensive facilities for all the family.
Being in the middle of a town yet self contained appealed to the empty nesters and couples I met and who like the routine of this intimate setting and buffet dining. All the rooms are spacious with gorgeous unspoiled views looking over the sea to Kri Kri Island. But it’s the staff and their warmth, kindness and attention to detail that makes this hotel so popular. Crete continues to entice me and I just know this won’t be my last visit.
For more from michelle see www.thenoveltraveller.com
Factbox
For more information on Giannoulis Hotels & Resorts, please go to www.giannoulishotels.com.
TUI offers seven nights at Giannoulis Santa Marina Plaza from €1,331 per person based on two adults sharing a Superior Room (Seaside) on a half-board basis.
Price includes return Ryanair flights from Dublin Airport departing on 28th September, overseas airport transfers and hand luggage only.
To find out more visit www.tui.co.uk, download the TUI app or pop into a TUI retail store.
TUI offers seven nights at Giannoulis Cavo Spada Luxury Sports & Leisure Resort from €931 per person based on two adults sharing a Deluxe Double Room with Sea View and Balcony or Terrace on a half-board basis.
Price includes return Ryanair flights from Dublin Airport departing on 13th October, overseas airport transfers and hand luggage only.
To find out more visit www.tui.co.uk, download the TUI app or pop into a TUI retail store.
TUI Musement offers a half-day Catamaran Cruise from Kolymbari Port experience, including lunch and snorkelling gear, from €160 per adult. Book at www.tuimusement.com
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